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Meaning of tease
The primary meaning of the word "tease" is to provoke or annoy someone in a playful or unkind way.
Etymology of tease
The word "tease" originated in the 15th century, from the Old English word "tēsan", which means "to pull or stretch"
Initially, the word referred to the act of pulling or stretching something, such as hair or a thread, in order to separate or unravel it
Over time, the word took on additional meanings, including the act of provoking or annoying someone in a playful or unkind way
Synonyms
taunt
mock
ridicule
jeer
sneer
jibe
jest
joke
provoke
irritate
annoy
vex
plague
bother
pester
harass
torment
badger
goad
egg on
tweak
ruffle
rile
inflame
nettle
gall
irk
peeve
chafe
grate
rankle
get under someone's skin
get on someone's nerves
wind up
rark up
take the mickey
have a laugh at someone's expense
Definitions
- To provoke or annoy someone in a playful or unkind way, often by making jokes or unkind comments
- To pull or stretch something, such as hair or a thread, in order to separate or unravel it
- To cajole or coax someone into doing something, often in a playful or flirtatious way
Usage Examples
- She teased her brother about his new haircut, saying it made him look like a clown
- He teased the dog with a ball, tossing it just out of reach
- The teacher teased the students about their upcoming exam, saying it would be much harder than they expected